Most industrial units in TN Virudhunagar start functioning

Virudhunagar, May 6: Majority of industrial units, including the fireworks, printing, weaving and safety matches factories started functioning in the southern district of Virudhunagar on Wednesday after 43-day lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Official sources said, following relaxation of lockdown norms by the government, the district administration issued certain guidelines to the industrial units for reopening in a phased manner to protect the livelihood of thousands of labourers. The industrial units were directed to ensure that Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) should be followed scrupulously, besides to ensure that the units are properly disinfected, workers should compulsorily wear masks and maintain social distancing etc.

Tamil Nadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association president A Asaithambi said majority of 1,070 registered fireworks factories in the district reopened with 50 per cent employees. Since only 50 percent of workforce was allowed as per the guidelines, the fireworks units have planned to implement turn basis to provide employment to all workers, he added. (UNI)